June is uniquely recognized for possessing not one, but three official birthstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. This selection reflects the multifaceted nature of the month itself, historically associated with excitement, balance, rejuvenation, and even marriage. While pearl holds the longest-standing claim as the June birthstone, alexandrite and moonstone have gained prominence, offering a diverse range of options for those born in this vibrant month. Each gem carries its own distinct history, lore, and gemological properties, making June a particularly rich month for gemstone enthusiasts.
A History of Changing Attributions
The designation of birthstones evolved over time. Early formalized lists, such as the one published by Tiffany & Co. in 1870, credited pearl as the sole June birthstone. This attribution was maintained in the 1912 standardized list created by the National Association of Jewellers, with moonstone appearing as an alternative. The 1937 UK list from the National Association of Goldsmiths echoed this pairing. However, the Jewelry Industry Council of America modified the list in the 1950s, adding alexandrite to the June birthstone family. This addition was, in part, driven by a belief that alexandrite was more readily available than pearl – a notion that has since proven inaccurate. The evolution of June’s birthstones demonstrates the dynamic nature of these traditions and the influence of market factors and gemological discoveries.
Pearl: The Organic Gemstone
The pearl stands as a truly unique gemstone, being the only organic birthstone in the calendar. Unlike other gems formed within the Earth, pearls develop inside living organisms – specifically, mollusks. These mollusks, found in both saltwater and freshwater environments, create distinctive gems characterized by specific color ranges and sizes. For millennia, pearls were exceptionally rare, their accidental discovery by divers representing a fortunate find that captivated the wealthy and noble classes.
The landscape of pearl availability dramatically shifted in 1893 with Kokichi Mikimoto’s development of pearl culturing. This innovation made pearls accessible to a wider audience, fueling a surge in demand. Today, extensive mollusk farms operate in select locations where pearl-bearing mollusks thrive, ensuring a consistent supply of these lustrous gems.
Historically, pearls have been highly valued across numerous cultures. Ancient Greeks believed they were the tears of the gods, while Hindus considered them to be tears of the moon. In Tudor England, the period became known as the “Pearl Age” due to the gem’s immense popularity among the nobility. Beyond its status as the June birthstone and a traditional gift for third and thirtieth wedding anniversaries, the pearl is often associated with feelings of calm, balance, and emotional healing, embodying sentiments of loyalty, faithfulness, modesty, and purity. The name "pearl" itself originates from the Latin word ‘Perna,’ referring to the leg-of-mutton shape of an open mollusk shell.
Alexandrite: Emerald by Day, Ruby by Night
Alexandrite is the most modern of the June birthstones, celebrated for its remarkable color-changing ability. Described as “emerald by day, ruby by night,” this gem exhibits a unique phenomenon known as pleochroism. Under normal lighting conditions, alexandrite appears as a transparent yellow-green to greenish-blue stone. However, when exposed to different light sources – particularly polarized light like sunlight – it dramatically shifts color, displaying shades of red, dark purple, or orange depending on the viewing angle.
This captivating color change is a result of its composition as a valued form of the mineral chrysoberyl. The most prized alexandrite displays a vivid green to bluish-green hue in daylight or fluorescent light, transforming into a deep red to purplish shade under incandescent light. The rarity and allure of alexandrite are often likened to the complexities of love, presenting itself in different forms and shades.
Alexandrite was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia on what is believed to be Czar Alexander II’s birthday, hence its name. Following the depletion of the original Russian mines, deposits were later discovered in Brazil, revitalizing the supply of this coveted gemstone. Despite its relative modernity, alexandrite has quickly become a highly sought-after gem among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
Moonstone: Mystical Charm and Medicinal Beliefs
Moonstone, alongside pearl and alexandrite, completes the trio of June birthstones. Historically, moonstone rings were crafted not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for perceived medicinal benefits and mystical charm. Beyond these beliefs, moonstone is associated with love, passion, and good fortune, making it a meaningful gift for cherished ones.
The gem’s history extends back to ancient civilizations. Written records dating back to 2206 BC document freshwater pearls being gifted to Chinese royalty, and archaeological evidence suggests prehistoric use of mother of pearl in the Indus Valley and Sri Lanka. The oldest known pearl jewelry, the “Susa Pearls” necklace, dates back to around 420 BC.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
While each June birthstone possesses unique characteristics, understanding their gemological properties provides a deeper appreciation for their individual qualities.
| Property | Pearl | Alexandrite | Moonstone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composition | Calcium Carbonate | Beryllium Aluminum Oxide | Potassium Aluminum Silicate |
| Color | White, Black, Pink | Green, Red, Purple | White, Gray, Peach |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 2.5 - 4.5 | 8.5 | 6 - 6.5 |
| Luster | Nacreous | Vitreous | Pearly |
| Transparency | Opaque | Transparent | Translucent |
| Formation | Organic (Mollusk) | Mineral (Chrysoberyl) | Mineral |
The Mohs hardness scale illustrates the relative durability of each gem, with alexandrite being significantly harder than pearl and moonstone. This difference in hardness impacts their suitability for various jewelry settings and requires different care considerations.
Symbolism and Modern Applications
The three June birthstones continue to hold symbolic significance in modern times. Pearls represent purity, innocence, and faith, making them popular choices for bridal jewelry. Alexandrite symbolizes good fortune, balance, and joy, while moonstone is believed to enhance intuition and promote emotional stability.
Today, these gems are incorporated into a wide range of jewelry designs, from classic pearl necklaces and earrings to contemporary rings and pendants featuring alexandrite’s captivating color change or moonstone’s ethereal glow. The versatility of these stones allows for creative expression and personalized adornment. Combining all three June birthstones in a single piece of jewelry, such as a pendant, offers a unique and meaningful way to celebrate a June birthday.
Conclusion
The June birthstones – pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone – represent a captivating blend of organic beauty, rare color change, and mystical charm. From their ancient origins and evolving historical significance to their distinct gemological properties and enduring symbolism, these gems offer a rich tapestry of meaning for those born in June. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, perceived metaphysical benefits, or personal connection, these three birthstones embody the excitement, balance, and rejuvenation that define the month of June.